I attended a presentation by Master
Doug, owner of The Sanctuary of the Dark Angel, that included information on
petitioning and a discussion on Leather Resumes presented by Mistress
Kali at a function called IROP. I took this information and enhanced it by
talking with others that might be considered 'elders' in this lifestyle and
this is what I have come up with.
Just to get you started, let me tell you that a
petition is very similar to a cover letter you would put with a resume.
It is simply a part of a whole package. You can find tons of
references on how to write business cover letters and resumes at your local
library or on the Internet.
Within the lifestyle you would create a leather
resume and include within it very similar things as you would a resume
for a job. You alter the information to fit the leather lifestyle. For
example, your education would include not only whatever degrees you may hold
but also your education within the lifestyle. Your experience would most
definitely be leather related. If you don't have experience, do not
make it up. There are many out there who love to teach novices. Do
include things you might like to learn and things of particular interest to
you. Special skills you have mastered would also be of interest to a
prospective partner/owner. Some examples are:cooking, teaching,
nursing, second languages, web design, interior decorating, or maybe
you have a talent for making your own toys. Also, community service is an
important element. If you are new, I'm sure this wont be extensive but
its something to start working on. Here, community service means, service to
your leather community as well as your local community. Don't forget to
offer references. Be sure you have contacted the people that you wish to use
as a reference so they are not caught by surprise if your references
are checked. You may use friends, members of local or online groups that
know you or former partners. I would not include anyone you think has
an axe to grind or would say something hurtful about you.
Since this is a specialized sort of resume, you should include
any physical or mental restrictions you may have and include any
medications you take regularly along with any allergies you have. Another
thing to consider is finances. Do you intend to work? Are you willing or
able to relocate? What about health insurance and retirement? Don't count on
a relationship to be forever or expect someone to support you financially.
At the end, if/when it comes, you will need to be able to support yourself if
you have been in service on a 24/7 basis.
The petition itself is going to tell the ONE
person or couple what your wishes and desires are. You will need to do your
homework and know about them in advance before you can be sure you wish to
petition them. Be clear in what you want and what you have to offer in
return. If you are service-oriented, explain in clear, concise terms
what you feel your strengths and weaknesses are. If you are just looking for
a play partner, say so. I would also include a realistic estimate of how
much time you have or wish to devote to this contract or relationship. Is it
a live in, 24/7 position you desire? Perhaps you are free just one
weekend a month. Most of all be sincere. Do not send out a petition to
several different people like a form letter where you insert the name of the
next person on your list.
Remember, this document could be used to start
building a contract between you and your perspective partner. Don't be
afraid to delineate areas that you are unwilling negotiate and things you
consider to be needs. Be sure you know the difference between needs
and wants too.
One other important point is, check your grammar
and spelling. You will want to present a polished product to any prospective
partner just as you would to an employer. Here you are making a first
impression and you want it to be a good one.
Good luck and please feel free to write to
me if you have more questions.
Sincerely,
Catalina
In service to her community